A Thousand and One Stories of Pericon de Cadiz

Juan Martínez Vílchez, (1901-1980) or "Pericón de Cádiz," was known as one of the leading exponents of cante in the style of Cádiz, a veteran of the by then waning fiesta scene, a link to early twentieth century flamenco, and a former featured artist from La Zambra. But most importantly he was known as the epitome of a witty Gaditano story teller. Surely because of this reputation, José Luis Ortiz Nuevo lugged his tape recorder to Pericón's Madrid apartment, and, plying his subject with whiskey, proceeded to collect what was to become a classic. The English translation by John Moore is faithful to the original.